GdS: Lecce defender back in fashion as Milan could leverage Mendes relations

The Lecce centre-back Tiago Gabriel is once again on AC Milan’s radar, looking to replace the exit-bound Fikayo Tomori before the window closes.

Tomori is one of the players who have been told that they need to leave Milanello this summer. After several years at the club, and one Scudetto under his belt, the Englishman is thus preparing to pack his bags.

Fabio Capello has questioned the decision, urging Milan to ‘think twice’ before going ahead with it, but it seems the management has made up its mind. As such, a replacement will need to be brought in as soon as possible.

Who will replace Tomori?

According to Gazzetta dello Sport this morning (see photo at the bottom), Milan have fully abandoned their pursuit of Goncalo Inacio, having realised that such an operation would be far too costly. Instead, they have shifted attention to an old target: Tiago Gabriel.

The Lecce defender was first linked with the Rossoneri at the end of last year, with Igli Tare eyeing a move for the Portuguese international. Since then, he has remained under observation, and now he seems to be fully back on the radar.

Lecce have already rejected a €20m offer from Benfica for the 21-year-old, so the big question is whether Milan are willing to offer more than that.

Another interesting detail, as the newspaper concludes, is that the defender changed agents to Jorge Mendes this year. This could facilitate a deal for the Rossoneri as they have a good relationship with the super-agent.